Allardyce rules out duo sale

Taylor and Martins to stay at St James' Park

Last updated: 9th January 2008

taylor

Toon duo to stay

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce has warned that he has no intention of allowing Steven Taylor or Obafemi Martins to leave St James' Park.

Following a disappointing first half of the season Newcastle are expected to use the January transfer window to shuffle their ranks somewhat, with exits and arrivals anticipated in equal measures.

Taylor's existing deal expires in the summer and thus far he has been unable to thrash out fresh terms with the North East club.

Tottenham are thought to be monitoring Taylor's situation but Allardyce is adamant the 21-year-old will not be allowed to leave in January.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "While they say everybody has got his price, I can tell them that Steven Taylor is not for sale."

Martins staying

Martins, who is currently away with the Nigeria squad ahead of the African Cup of Nations, has been the subject of admiring glances from both Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Again though, Allardyce has insisted Martins is not a player he would consider selling.

"We have had no contact with Villa or City about Obafemi Martins, but I can tell them - and anybody else, for that matter - that he is not for sale."

Fringe players

While loath to sanction departures before he has secured replacements, Allardyce concedes he will allow fringe players to seek pastures new.

"I do not want to lose any players really," he added on the club's official website.

"But I'm in the same boat as everyone else really. If a large enough offer is made for one of my fringe players and we can use the money to strengthen the side, we will look at it.

"It would have to be a sizeable offer to tempt me."